On Saturday, May 2, the American Legion Auxiliary #347 will host the annual statewide convention of Gold Star Mothers at the American Legion Post 347 in Lady Lake.
Conference check-in for pre-registered attendees, and on site registration, will begin at 9:00 AM. The Auxiliary will provide lunch at no cost to pre-registered guests, and the program will run until about 3:00 PM.
Gold Star Mothers, who usually wear white, have lost a son or daughter serving in the U.S. military. Unlike the blue star banner, which indicates a family member is currently serving in the military, gold star banners signify a son or daughter who has paid the ultimate price — the sacrifice of their life in service to our country.
Some Gold Star Mothers have lost an adult child in actual combat, but some may have succumbed from self-inflicted injuries, from drugs or suicide. The convention, which the Auxiliary hosted last year as well, encourages women to join this safe haven, where they can feel at ease coming forward and meeting other women who have suffered similar loss.
Because feelings surrounding these tragic events may be sensitive, it is fitting to greet the women by saying: “I’m sorry for your loss,” rather than asking about how their son or daughter died. For those who may wish to discuss their experience in detail, the conversation should be self-initiated, safeguarding each persons choice of privacy or disclosure.
Discussion will take place at the convention about forming a Lady Lake/Villages Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers.
Joanne Maitland is the contact person for convention information — about lodging and travel logistics and about membership in the organization. She can be reached at Mait1st@aol.com or 772 215-1330.
